Polls give debate win to Obama
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TV polls awared the debate to Senator Obama over his rival John McCain. (AFP: Stan Honda)
The two presidential candidates in the United States presidential election have squared off in a debate dominated by the financial crisis and who is best to tackle it.
Snap polls by US television networks taken after the debate awarded it to Democrat Barack Obama, who seemed as comfortable as his rival in the "town-hall" format, which Republican John McCain is said to love.
A CNN national poll found that 54 per cent of those asked thought Senator Obama won, while 30 per cent said Senator McCain was victorious.
A CBS survey also gave the debate to Senator Obama - 40 per cent to 26 per cent.
During the debate, Senator McCain offered a mortgage rescue plan while Senator Obama promised tax cuts for the middle class.
But the debate, which was held in Nashville, Tennesse, may do little to change the presidential race which has seen Senator Obama opening up a lead over his rival.
Senators Obama and McCain began the televised debate with a handshake, a smile and an eagerness to prove they understand American voters are worried by the unravelling economy.
"I think everybody knows now we're in the worst financial crisis since the great depression," Senator Obama said.
"Americans are angry, they're upset and they're a little fearful," Senator McCain said.
In an unusual step, Senator McCain used the debate to lay out a sweeping new program to keep homeowners from foreclosure.
He said the US Government would buy up bad mortgages and renegotiate loans at lower rates - a plan his campaign says could cost up to $US300 billion.
"Is it expensive? Yes. But we all know, my friends, until we stabilise home values in America, we're never going to start turning around and creating jobs and fixing our economy," Senator McCain said.
But the economic turmoil facing America has tipped the presidential contest in favour of Senator Obama.
It has put Senator McCain under pressure to shake-up the race.
And while there has been no outright hostility, the tension was clear, with each candidate lacing his answers with attacks on each other's policies.
"Nailing down Senator Obama's various tax proposals is like nailing jell-o to the wall," he said.
Senator Obama responded with a crack about John McCain's campaign bus.
"Senator McCain, I think the straight talk express lost a wheel on that one," he said.
At times the tone was even less civil, with Senator McCain not referring to his opponent by name.
"You know who voted for it? That one" Senator McCain said, in a sharp comment directed at Senator Obama.
And Senator Obama bluntly challenged John McCain's temperament.
"Now Senator McCain suggests that somehow, you know, I'm green behind the ears, and I'm just spouting off and he's somber and responsible," he said.
The presidential rivals will meet for their final debate next week.
